Evaluation of methods for measuring ammonia,odour and dust in the VERA test protocol for air cleaning technologies

A new project from Danish and European experts will ensure that an upcoming revision of the test protocol for air cleaning will be based on the latest research.

The VERA Secretariat has initiated a project within the framework of the international ICT-AGRI network to harmonise the methods and guidelines used in testing air-cleaning technologies for ammonia, odour and dust emission reduction efficiencies in lifestock production. The project is a collaboration between European experts from Holland, Denmark, Germany, Belgium and France. The project will evaluate existing methods and standards for measuring ammonia, dust and odour. This is achieved on the basis of experience in applying the VERA test protocol for air cleaning. Each of the three areas will have a working subgroup, which will provide recommendations for the future measuring methods. The results will in part be used for a revision of the VERA test protocol for air cleaning technologies.

A key goal is to identify the problems that arise when using the existing guidelines and measuring methods for ammonia, dust and odour, such as the particular conditions that are in play in farming. In addition, the project will provide recommendations for scientifically recognized guidelines based on the newest research.

One of the main success criterion is to evaluate the economic costs of implementing a test according to the new guidelines and methods for measurement to ensure that costs stay at an acceptable level.

The working group for odour has received a document describing the problems in using the existing methods of measurement for measuring odour associated with livestock production. Large fluctuations have been identified between the various laboratory tests. Therefore, there is a need for further research to identify the extent of the problem and to place focus on this area.

All three subgroups will describe state of the art methods for measurement based on existing knowledge and subsequently the subgroups will make recommendations on which methods to use and guidelines on how each method should be applied.